When it comes to discussing the most proper and delicious way to eat a bagel, heated (pun intended) arguments are bound to ensue. The topic of whether or not to toast a salmon bagel is one that has sparked many debates among bagel enthusiasts. In this article, we will settle this age-old question once and for all. Get ready for the Serious Eats Bagel Debate!
The Definition of a Bagel
Before we delve into the great bagel debate, let's first define our terms. According to the New York Times, a bagel is a round bread made of simple, elegant ingredients such as high-gluten flour, salt, water, yeast, and malt. The dough is boiled and then baked to achieve a rich caramel color. A properly made bagel should weigh four ounces or less and make a slight cracking sound when you bite into it. It should be eaten warm and ideally no more than four or five hours old.
Now that we have established the basic characteristics of a bagel, let's move on to the contentious issue of toasting.
Do Smoked Salmon Bagels Need Toasting?
In his article for the New York Times, the author suggests that a good bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon does not need to be toasted. The contrasting flavors and textures of the creamy cheese, salty salmon, and crunchy bagel crust provide enough satisfaction for the palate. However, the author does mention that a buttered bagel should almost always be toasted to enhance the rich melted butter taste.
It is important to note that the author's opinions were expressed a few years ago. Since then, he has felt compelled to update and expand his findings on the subject.
After further research and experience, the author now believes that a bagel that is not fresh out of the oven and at least six hours old does need to be toasted, regardless of the toppings. This is because an older bagel tends to become hard and toasting helps restore some of its freshness. Additionally, if you have a sliced and frozen bagel, toasting is necessary to bring it back to life.
Furthermore, badly made bagels that have not been boiled and baked, such as those found at certain fast-food chains, must be toasted to have any chance of being tasty and satisfying. Bagels from Starbucks also fall into this category and require toasting.
It is worth mentioning that outside of New York City, where bagel standards may vary, finding bagels that do not need to be toasted can be challenging. In Montreal, for example, there is a unique bagel tradition. Their small bagels are made in a wood-burning oven and sweetened with honey. When consumed within four hours of purchase, these bagels do not require toasting. However, after the four-hour mark, they join the ranks of bagels that need to be toasted.
The Final Verdict
After considering all the factors, it is safe to say that whether or not to toast a smoked salmon bagel ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people enjoy the added warmth and texture that toasting provides, while others prefer the freshness and softness of an untoasted bagel. The important thing is to choose a high-quality bagel and pair it with delicious toppings like cream cheese and smoked salmon for a truly satisfying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use any type of bagel for smoked salmon?
- Q: What other toppings go well with smoked salmon on a bagel?
- Q: Can I use frozen smoked salmon for my bagel?
- Q: Are there any alternatives to cream cheese for a smoked salmon bagel?
A: While traditional plain or everything bagels are commonly used for smoked salmon, you can experiment with different flavors like sesame, poppy seed, or even a flavored cream cheese bagel.
A: Besides cream cheese, you can add sliced red onion, capers, fresh dill, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.
A: Yes, you can use frozen smoked salmon. Just make sure to thaw it properly before assembling your bagel.
A: If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a substitute for cream cheese.
As with any culinary debate, it's important to remember that personal taste should always be the ultimate guide. Feel free to experiment and find the perfect balance of flavors and textures that suits your preferences. Whether you choose to toast your smoked salmon bagel or enjoy it untoasted, savor each bite and embrace the deliciousness of this classic combination.
If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked salmon bagels: the ultimate guide to toasting you can visit the Toasting category.